Unsafe Homes due to Cyclone Gabrielle

The Times-Age asked for an update on the EOC and the likelihood of unsafe homes/buildings being stickered. The following response, attributable to Local Controller Steven May was provided:

The EOC was deactivated at the close of activity on Monday 20 February. The response is now transitioning to recovery, there being no immediate threat to life or property.

A recovery plan is currently being developed.

The role of councils in recovery will be to facilitate communication with and between our response partners, including MSD, Police, FENZ, Wellington Free Ambulance, Te Whatu Ora, East Coast Rural Support Trust, as well as MPI and Federated Farmers.

Staff from Masterton District Council’s Building team are today assessing affected homes and buildings affected by flooding. Staff from the Community Development team are also in the Tinui area assessing welfare needs

Council contractors are continuing to work hard to repair rural roads, with regular updates on the Council website. There continue to be multiple hazards on roads, with slips still moving, and the message remains to avoid unnecessary travel as this can delay repair work.

Around 20 people self-evacuated during the event. Two people were provided with emergency accommodation, and three people went to Whareama School.

Food was provided to Castlepoint, Mataikona and Tinui. Food continues to be available in Tinui at the Community Hub based out of the Tinui Hall. This will likely wind down by the end of the week.

Medication was delivered to more than 10 people, arranged by Wellington Free Ambulance.